January 7, 2026 By Rory Earley
There have been many articles and posts recently regarding the Hingham Center for Active Living’s new building proposal. They come from truly caring Hingham residents, from senior citizens who are actively involved at the Center, and from environmentalists and economists who question many aspects of the plan. I think it’s important to listen to these voices and hear what they have to say. I have a slightly different perspective that I’d like to add to the mix as you consider how you will vote this spring.
That perspective is not one consisting of numbers and figures, but one of joy. The definition of joy is a state of being that allows one to experience intense, long lasting happiness and contentment in life. That is how I would describe the overall essence of everyone involved at the Center. I have been an active volunteer for about five years, and every time I walk back to my car from my “shift,” I feel deep personal fulfillment not only from giving back but from the many conversations and discussions I have with the senior citizen members and the kindhearted staff.
The people at the Center care about each other. They look out for one another, and they share many lifetimes of experiences, both beautiful and heartbreaking. Many of these stories come from lifelong Hingham residents who recall attending Foster School in the 1950s or walking to Hingham Middle School when it was located in the current Town Hall. They raised their children here and coached Little League games at Haley Field. They are us. Their stories are woven into the fabric of our community.
As this population has aged, some have lost a great deal. Many friends have died, spouses have passed, and their children often live far away. Their social circles have disappeared, and some have lost the ability to drive. Many rely on the Center to drive them to the grocery store or to doctor’s appointments. Sometimes they hitch a ride to the Center, where they play cards, join an exercise class, or sit in the Center’s “living room” to read the paper and feel a little less alone. The Center has created a space of engagement, connection, and fun.
Connection does not happen in a vacuum. It needs an accessible and welcoming space. The Center has outgrown its current home and needs a new one. I urge you to join me in supporting this new building plan. Please come to Town Meeting in April and vote in the town election in May. Lastly, please give your time if you’re able, whether that means volunteering, helping a neighbor, or simply conversing with a stranger who may need a moment of connection. The greatest gift we can give is our time.